get worse

USAGE SUMMARY

'get worse' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when something is becoming more difficult or unfavorable. For example, "The job situation in the city seems to be getting worse every day."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

It could get worse.

Stanford University

It can get worse.

The New York Times

Things then get worse.

The New York Times

Later, things get worse.

The New York Times - Books

Things would get worse.

Independent

They may get worse.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

It keeps getting worse.

University of California, Berkeley

But it gets worse.

Cornell University

It's getting worse.

Harvard University

It gets worse.

Stanford University

But it got worse.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context. While "get worse" is generally applicable, more specific verbs like "deteriorate" or "decline" might be more appropriate in certain situations.

Common error

In formal writing, overuse of the phrase "get worse" can sound simplistic. Opt for synonyms like "deteriorate" or "decline" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "get worse" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as a predicate to describe a change in condition. It indicates a negative progression, where something is deteriorating. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

12%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Science

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "get worse" is a common and grammatically sound way to express a decline or deterioration. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's correct and widely used across various contexts. While prevalent in news and media, and often applicable to other sources, more formal alternatives like "deteriorate" or "decline" may suit specific professional or academic writing needs. Understanding the nuances of its usage ensures clear and effective communication. Be mindful of overuse and context to maintain the desired tone in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

go from bad to worse

Emphasizes a progression of increasingly negative events.

take a turn for the worse

Indicates a sudden and negative change in circumstances.

go downhill

Suggests a rapid and continuous decline.

deteriorate

Emphasizes a gradual decline in quality or condition.

decline

Suggests a downward trend, often in health or economic terms.

degenerate

Implies a decline into a lower or less desirable state.

exacerbate

Focuses on making an existing problem more severe.

aggravate

Similar to exacerbate, but often used in the context of injuries or irritations.

regress

Indicates a return to a previous, less developed state.

fall apart

Implies a breakdown or disintegration of something.

FAQs

How can I use "get worse" in a sentence?

You can use "get worse" to describe a situation that is declining. For example, "The patient's condition started to "deteriorate" and "get worse" after the surgery".

What are some synonyms for "get worse"?

Some alternatives include "deteriorate", "decline", "take a turn for the worse", or "go downhill".

Is it always appropriate to use "get worse" in professional writing?

While generally acceptable, "get worse" might sound informal in certain professional contexts. Consider using stronger or more precise vocabulary like "exacerbate" or "aggravate" for a more sophisticated tone.

What does it mean when something "goes from bad to worse"?

The phrase "go from bad to worse" means that a situation is not only bad but is also declining further. It indicates a progression of increasingly negative events.